Structure, Hierarchy and Kin. An Ethnography of the Old Market in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines

Bryan W Rich

doi:10.4236/jss.2017.56010

Abstract

Every day, thousands of customers patronize hundreds of vendors at the Old Market in Puerto Princesa, seeking the highest quality products at the most affordable price. It is a “buyer’s market” as the variety of available products is limited to mostly locally produced goods. Why does a customer patronize one vender rather than another? Do social relationships influence this decision? Or, is price king? Does the relationship between customer and employee affect the vendor’s success? This paper attempts to shed light on the kinship ties and social stratification between vendors, customers and employees and its effects, if any, on the market’s economic success. After more than 6 months of participant observations, my findings show that the fictive kinship ties which develop between the regular customer and vendor, and the social stratification between customer and employee provide a structured functionalism to support the overarching economic theme of the public market.

Highlights

Of the more than 7100 islands that make up the Philippines, Palawan has earned a reputation among local and international tourists
After more than 6 months of participant observations, my findings show that the fictive kinship ties which develop between the regular customer and vendor, and the social stratification between customer and employee provide a structured functionalism to support the overarching economic theme of the public market
I originally embarked on this ethnography to better understand in what way, if any, kinship ties affect how the Old Market functions as a place of business in Puerto Princesa

Summary

Introduction

Of the more than 7100 islands that make up the Philippines, Palawan has earned a reputation among local and international tourists. Known domestically as the “last frontier” and making last year’s Conde Nast Traveler’s list of “best islands in the world” for its unmolested white sand beaches and Subterranean Underground River, Palawan’s tourism industry is bustling. The 255,000 Palawenos who call the city their home go about their daily routine, with many converging at some point during the week at the Old Market. Everyday thousands of customers patronize more than 350 vendors for their daily needs. Since the 1960s, the city’s Old Market has been the central shopping district for most of its residents. Local restaurant owners patronize the market, sometimes making a trip in the morning and returning in the afternoon for the best selection.

Methods

Results

Conclusion